Table of contents
I recently attended my second Hackathon and this time I came out more confident than ever! I wanted to share a few tips on how to have a productive hackathon. Check it out!
Pre-Hackathon
Community
The success behind a Hackathon starts before you even sign up and that is be part of a community! This will provide guidance (especially if its your first Hackathon) and many resources you didn't know you needed ex: scholarships! But I think the best part is gaining mentors and meeting other individuals in the same boat that will keep you motivated!
Community suggestions (In no particular order):
Get your laptop ready!
Please plan on bringing your laptop to the Hackathon. If you are a UI/UX designer then maybe even your iPad for design. This brings me to an important side topic.
You do not need to know how to code to be part of a Hackathon. Repeating for the ones in the back, you do not need to be a coder to be part of a Hackathon! Why? Because in your team there will be someone responsible for a powerpoint presentation, pitching or designing the UI. There is a spot for everyone or you can learn a new skill. Ok back to regular programming.
If you have a non-technical role AKA not a coder:
Make sure you have a Canva account for your pitch presentation
Figma is a great tool if you are in charge of design
Notion is an excellent tool for collaborating with your team and writing notes.
If you have a technical role AKA coder:
Make sure to have GitHub account
Set up Node JS
Install your IDE. There are many options out there, I use Visual Studio Code but please do your research.
Don't forget to set up a wallet just for the Hackathon. This will be your test wallet. Please do not use your personal wallet to hack.
At the Hackathon
Make sure to attend the technical events even if you are not technical. Its a great way to understand the blockchain and vocabulary used in the space
Don't be shy and meet new people. Even if its not about coding or web3, sharing interests can be a gateway to joining a new project. Tip: make sure to take a selfie after you meet each person and get their Telegram. That way you remember who each person is and can reach out to them in the future.
Have a few ideas under your belt of what you would like to build. But be flexible on joining other groups for the Hackathon. Communication is key. Although there isn't much time to meet other people, try to choose a group that you have chemistry with or feel comfortable speaking with.
Be ready to pitch yourself. I know you are here to pitch your project but its unbelievable the amount of people you will meet. Get ready to talk about yourself as well. Especially if you are on the job hunt.
Ask for help. Its new technology so its normal to get stuck while coding or creating. That's why the sponsors come to the event so they can get to know hackers and you can get assistance from them. They are actually quite nice and seem to enjoy assisting. Don't miss out on your 1 on 1 opportunity.
Bring a backpack. There is going to be a lot of free swag at these events and you don't want to carry everything in your arms. If you are traveling to the event make sure to pack light to have space for the swag you will receive.
Don't forget to have fun! I've met some amazing friends through these past two hackathons. I will never forget the experience!
Good Luck!! <3